Efforts to enhance rail service reliability and provide more career opportunities for young people are underway with a new proposal announced yesterday
The proposal suggests lowering the minimum age for train drivers from 20 to 18, potentially coming into effect as early as this summer.
If approved these new regulations will allow school leavers to pursue a career in the rail industry through apprenticeships and training programmes.
Employing younger train drivers
This initiative is necessary, as the average train driver is 48 years old. Without an influx of recruits, the workforce is expected to shrink significantly in the next five years.
Increasing the number of young drivers is expected to support the industry’s stability, assuring that services remain reliable even when staff are off sick or on annual leave.
For passengers, this could translate into fewer disruptions and more consistent train services. The number of young people entering the rail industry remains relatively low. Lowering the minimum age for train drivers would offer more choices to school or college graduates, encouraging greater workforce diversity.
Why is this proposal being set?
By addressing driver shortages and an ageing workforce, the proposal could have a positive impact on the reliability of train services.
Despite the proposed age reduction, all prospective train drivers will still be required to meet strict training and safety standards. To become a licensed train driver, trainees must pass mandatory medical, psychological, fitness, and professional competence exams. Continuous training, monitoring, and supervision will ensure the safety and efficiency of the railways.
This proposal is part of the government’s broader plans to reform laws following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, aiming to support the rail industry and promote a productive, high-skilled economy.
As consultations begin, the government will collaborate with industry stakeholders and the Office of Rail and Road to refine recruitment, training, and supervision processes to accommodate younger drivers while maintaining high safety standards.
The consultation on lowering the age started on Thursday and will end on 13 June.
